Did you not eventually lead Beata to believe that it was
necessary--not merely that it should be best--but that it was
necessary, both for your own sake and for John's, that you should
go away somewhere else as soon as possible?--Well?
Rebecca (speaking low and indistinctly). Perhaps I did say
something of the sort.
Rosmer (sinking into a chair by the window). And she, poor sick
creature, believed in this tissue of lies and deceit! Believed in
it so completely--so absolutely! (Looks up at REBECCA.) And she
never came to me about it--never said a word! Ah, Rebecca--I see it
in your face--YOU dissuaded her from doing so.
Rebecca. You know she had taken it into her head that she, a
childless wife, had no right to be here. And so she persuaded
herself that her duty to you was to give place to another.
Rosmer. And you--you did nothing to rid her mind of such an idea?
Rebecca. No.
Kroll. Perhaps you encouraged her in the idea? Answer! Did you
not do so?
Rebecca. That was how she understood me, I believe.
Rosmer. Yes, yes--and she bowed to your will in everything. And so
she gave place. (Springs up.) How could you--how could you go on
with this terrible tragedy!
Rebecca. I thought there were two lives here to choose between,
John.
Kroll (severely and with authority). You had no right to make any
such choice.
Rebecca (impetuously). Surely you do not think I acted with cold
and calculating composure! I am a different woman now, when I am
telling you this, from what I was then.
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